NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 19 – The Association of Startups and SME Enablers of Kenya (ASSEK) has launched the ESO Empowerment Collective, a nationwide publicity campaign to highlight the role of Entrepreneur Support Organisations (ESOs) in Kenya’s startup ecosystem.
The initiative, a partnership with the Ministry of Investments, Trade and Industry under the Kenya Industry Entrepreneurship Project ( KIEP) funded by the World Bank, aims to showcase, support, and strengthen ESOs’ impact on entrepreneurship and innovation.
ASSEK CEO Mercy Kimalat said the campaign will provide expert insights, networking opportunities, and strategic guidance to help ESOs and startups thrive.
“The ESO Empowerment Collective unites ESOs and entrepreneurs by fostering collaboration, sharing success stories, and providing essential resources for business growth,” Kimalat said.
The campaign will spotlight outstanding ESOs from ASSEK’s 150 members through site visits, media features, case studies, and digital storytelling in key regions, including Nairobi, Nakuru, Mombasa, Kisumu, Eldoret, Nyeri, Wajir, Lodwar, Kajiado, Kitengela, and Kilifi.
“ESOs are at the heart of Kenya’s innovation and economic progress,” Kimalat added.
“Through this initiative, we aim to elevate their work, foster collaboration, and attract investment and policy support to strengthen our entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
The campaign will feature media engagements, startup showcases, and stakeholder forums to boost visibility and recognition for ESOs.
By highlighting their transformative role, ASSEK seeks to drive strategic partnerships, policy advocacy, and investment opportunities for Kenya’s entrepreneurship sector.
